Amata Highlights $37.5 Million Broadband Funding From Bipartisan Infrastructure Law 

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is highlighting broadband funds announced Monday from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) passed by Congress in 2021. These funds, specifically $37,564,827.53, are for the Broadband, Equity and Deployment (BEAD) program administered by the NTIA as part of the U.S. Department of Commerce. Congress was notified of these funds Monday, and the administration followed up with a nationwide program funding announcement. 

The BIL is officially the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Amata supported this act throughout its consideration in Congress as it was known to include major increases to American Samoa including broadband, highway funding formula, and other priority, as secured in 2021 by the representatives of the territories working together. The BIL provides well over $100 million for American Samoa over five years in support for infrastructure: roads, bridges, ports, airports, safe drinking water, broadband, cybersecurity, and sewage systems.

“Quality infrastructure and technology investment strengthens a local economy,” said Congresswoman Amata. “Broadband can be especially important to provide the communications access necessary to being part of the worldwide economic, educational, and healthcare opportunities that are constantly advancing.”

BEAD program funding emphasizes support for expanding access in underserved communities, and the current announcement is part of the Internet For All initiative.

“Congratulations to our people, Governor Lemanu Mauga, ASG, and anyone who works with these funds, as they can make a difference for our territory,” she concluded. “Thank you to Secretary Gina Raimondo, the Department of Commerce, Assistant Secretary Alan Davidson and NTIA for this announcement.”

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